Independence Day Celebrations Face Challenges Amid National Tension
Polling data indicates a noticeable decline in national pride among Americans, especially among Democrats during the Trump administration, with some contemplating skipping this year’s July Fourth festivities.
However, Scott Allen, a Democrat residing in Southern California, plans to observe the nation’s 249th birthday with a diverse group of neighbors, featuring barbecues and fireworks displays.
Allen reflects on his U.S. Marine father’s legacy, expressing pride in the freedoms Americans enjoy. “We have the right to protest and freely express our opinions,” stated Allen, 60, from Lakewood, located south of Los Angeles.
For many, this Independence Day may feel different. Throughout the nation, protests against Trump’s immigration policies are anticipated, and in Southern California, where immigration enforcement has unsettled communities, some Fourth of July events have been canceled.
Fireworks vendors are navigating the complexities of tariffs, yet travel for the holiday is projected to reach unprecedented levels.
California Festivities Canceled
In the Los Angeles area, multiple communities have opted to forgo Independence Day celebrations due to safety concerns prompted by the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement.
The recent raids have sparked weeks of protests and led to the deployment of National Guard troops and Marines by Trump.
In the El Sereno neighborhood, the local parade was canceled after 90% of participants withdrew. Organizer Genny Guerrero noted that while the predominantly Latino community is deeply patriotic, many are opting out of festivities due to fears of immigration enforcement.
“When anyone with brown skin is at risk, regardless of their citizenship status, it endangers the whole community,” Guerrero remarked.
A downtown block party that attracted 20,000 attendees last year has been postponed, and suburban areas such as Bell Gardens have scrapped their celebrations altogether.
Protests Planned Alongside Celebrations
Simultaneously, several Independence Day events are being organized as protests against Trump’s policies, including cuts to Medicaid, according to Tamika Middleton, director of the Women’s March.
This group, known for orchestrating the Women’s March on Washington in 2017, will host events ranging from casual potlucks to large-scale rallies in major cities.
One event is scheduled at a naturalization ceremony in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, to welcome new citizens, while larger protests will occur in metropolitan areas, including one outside Houston’s City Hall.
“We invite everyone to imagine what a genuinely free America would look like,” Middleton stated.
Tariffs Impacting Fireworks Industry
The majority of fireworks sold in the United States originate from China, as noted by Julie Heckman, executive director of the American Pyrotechnics Association.
With the trade conflict with China escalating, tariffs on Chinese fireworks reached 145% in April. However, Trump temporarily paused these tariffs in May, maintaining them at 30%.
Current city fireworks displays are likely unaffected, as shells were procured well in advance, and retailers have not passed the 30% tariff increase onto consumers for backyard fireworks.
Next year could present a different challenge, as higher tariffs are not viable for businesses. Heckman expressed concern regarding the upcoming 250th anniversary of the nation in 2026: “Every small town will want special fireworks displays to honor America’s milestone.”
Record Travel Anticipated
According to the auto club AAA, more than 72 million people are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home during the holiday period, reflecting two weekends in the forecast for increased accuracy.
Nearly 62 million will opt for road travel, marking a 2.2% increase over last year, the highest figure on record. While drivers have faced slight price rises at gas stations, summer fuel costs remain the lowest since 2021.
Moreover, approximately six million individuals are projected to fly, a 4% rise compared to the previous year. The Federal Aviation Administration predicts that this year will witness the highest travel volume for Independence Day in 15 years.
Finley contributed to this report from Norfolk, Virginia.
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